The actor, who is famous for his physique, he feels he has finally made it out of his image by playing this character inspired by real life.
Surve, a member of the Mumbai underworld, was shot dead in a clash with police in suburban Wadala in 1982 in what is said to be the first recorded meeting of the city.
"The story of Manya Surve is very interesting, it was a different character.'s Not a risk, re-introduction of John Abraham.'s A new beginning. Hopefully people see me in a different light.
"For the first time I have John Abraham back. Manya Surve People will remember and I'm sure of it. We are a people of hope like the film," John told reporters yesterday afternoon.
The actor, whose latest film "I Me Aur Main 'did not do well at the box office, think negative roles will bring more attention.
"Every time I do negative roles films work. The last time I made a positive role and the film did not work. Negative roles I love. Normal is boring ... anyone can play a hero, to play negative is an advantage" said.
Directed by Sanjay Gupta, 'Shootout at Wadala' stars John, Anil Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut, Tusshar Kapoor and Sonu Sood in lead roles. The film will be released on May 3.
"We all play gangsters in the film, we have not glorified gangsters are shown as.'ve Tried to stay close to the facts," said the actor, who has been associated with Gupta after 'Zinda.
His other famous negative role was in "Dhoom".